Counting Rhinos in Bardia National Park
In May 2007 ZSL, DNWPC and NTNC, Nepal carried out a rhino count to estimate the total number of rhino in Bardia NP. This population had been established through translocation of animals from Chitwan in the 1980s and had bred up successfully. The count involved a team of field staff riding 15 elephants through the tall grassland habitat.
The elephants were ridden in a line across the grassland ensuring all parts of the park were covered. By using elephants there is little disturbance to wildlife and the rhinos can be more easily seen.
31 Rhinos were counted in Bardia NP, showing that the newly established population had lost up to 100 rhino due to poaching, highlighting the desperate need for more protection and education.
Total rhinos in Chitwan NP and Suklaphanta WR will be counted in 2008.